NI Executive £7 million Support For City of Derry Airport

NI Executive Multi Million Pound Derry Airport Bailout

NI First Minister Rt Hon Arlene Foster MLA and deputy First Minister, Martin McGuinness MLA have confirmed the Northern Ireland Executive will provide up to £7 million support for the North-West to assist development and growth around the City of Derry Airport.



The Executive will provide up to £2.5 million in route development support which will help transform the future of the airport and a further £4.5 million capital investment in partnership with Derry and Strabane District Council aimed at creating high-value jobs and training opportunities.



NI First Minister said: “This £7 million package ensures the airport remains a key gateway to the North West for business and leisure travel. The Council also has plans for further development which would bring employment opportunities to the area and we want to act as a catalyst for it to succeed.



"This announcement is part of our plan to help deliver economic prosperity in every part of Northern Ireland. Indeed, the plans to invest in capital works will be a welcome boost to the construction sector in the North-West as well.



"Our package of support will ultimately allow the airport to plan for the future and remain a key part of the transport infrastructure for Northern Ireland.”



The deputy First Minister, Martin McGuinness MLA said: "Connectivity is a pre-requisite for economic development which made this £7 million investment in the City of Derry Airport vital.



"This £7 million package will enable the City of Derry Airport to invest in route development and capital projects which will create high value jobs and training opportunities. I have been actively engaged in discussions with the City of Derry Airport and the local council for a number of weeks.



"With Ryanair’s withdrawal, having another airline in place is vital for our economic development and I am pleased discussions are at an advanced stage. I am confident this financial backing will enable the airport to not only function but flourish and serve all the people of the North-West and further afield.”



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